A major narcotics operation has been uncovered in Porterville, California, involving multiple arrests and the seizure of drugs, firearms, and other illegal items. The Porterville Police Department’s Narcotic Investigation Unit (NIU), working with the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), received tips about a house on South Doree Street suspected of being a hub for drug sales.
Investigators kept a close eye on the residence and identified Marvin Statler and Tanya Leveck as the primary occupants. Surveillance confirmed the house was being used for selling methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana. With enough evidence in hand, detectives secured a search warrant from a Tulare County judge.
On December 20, 2024, at 2:44 PM, detectives watched as Statler and Leveck left their home and followed them to a location on North D Street. There, officers safely detained them. The team then returned to the South Doree Street residence to execute the warrant.
As officers approached, Jonah Teal, one of the residents, tried to escape by running out the back door and jumping a fence into a neighboring yard. Detectives chased him down and took him into custody. Meanwhile, three other individuals in the home, identified as Mitchell Thomas, Justin Leveck, and Michael Hurtado, surrendered without any issues.
During their search, detectives found overwhelming evidence of drug dealing. The house was packed with digital scales, plastic baggies, drug residue, and a ledger detailing drug sales. They also discovered 98 pre-packaged bindles of drugs, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, hydrocodone, and fentanyl pills. Large amounts of unprocessed meth and fentanyl were also seized, along with about 70 used meth pipes.
But that wasn’t all. Officers also found several firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, a .22-caliber Remington S14, and a Savage Arms 20-gauge shotgun. The AR-15 and Remington rifles had their serial numbers scratched off. Alongside these weapons, detectives found a large-capacity magazine, armor-piercing ammunition, and live rounds.
Statler and Leveck were hit with several charges, including running a drug house, possession of controlled substances for sale, and transportation of controlled substances. Statler faced additional charges related to the firearms and ammunition.
Teal, who had active warrants, was charged with running a drug house, drug possession, and being under the influence of controlled substances. Thomas, Justin Leveck, and Hurtado were arrested for similar charges, including operating a drug house and possessing drug paraphernalia.
The Porterville Police Department has submitted the case to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office for further review. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the case to reach out to the department via phone or social media. Tips can also be provided anonymously.
